Preservation Design

Preservation Design

HPD Design Guidelines for Preservation

Download the Guidelines below

The HPD Design Guidelines for Preservation are a major component of HPD’s Sustainability Framework and reflect HPD’s commitment to the City’s goal of an 80% reduction in emissions by 2050. The Guidelines establish a minimum design standard that ensures that all HPD projects can meet NYC’s ambitious climate goals and laws while incorporating best practices for resiliency, health, and safety. The Guidelines are designed to help applicants comply with the City’s sustainability laws and meet the threshold requirements of the utility and state incentive programs.

The Guidelines outline mandatory baseline requirements as well as optional "reach” criteria which are encouraged, but not required. Certain mandatory requirements may be waived by HPD via a Design Waiver Request.

HPD recognizes that the Design Guidelines cannot address all scenarios. Pertinent laws, rules, regulations, and codes take precedence over the Guidelines in the event of a conflict. When unique or special circumstances, extraordinary market conditions, or special community characteristics necessitate deviation from any aspect of the Guidelines, the development team must submit a request for a design waiver.

Guidelines Applicability

The Guidelines are effective as of March 1st, 2023 and apply to all new HPD Projects defined as Moderate, Substantial or Gut Rehabs (including Mitchell-Lama projects). Maintenance only and tax exemption only projects are not subject to the Design Guidelines process but must comply with the applicable sections in the Guidelines. More information on applicability and requirements can be found in the FAQ.

HPD Design Guidelines for Preservation

Additional Resources

 Other Resources referenced in the Guidelines:

  • HPD’s Building and Land Development Services webpage: on this page you will find additional resources as well as checklists and documents required to submit to BLDS.
  • HPD Sustainability webpage: on this page you will find information about HPD’s sustainability protocols, policies and programs that are referenced in the Guidelines, including Enterprise Green Communities, Solar Where Feasible, incentive programs, trainings and other resources.
  • Green Communities Trainings: on this page you will find information about Green Communities Trainings.

Trainings